The President of the Supreme Court, Hon. Domitilla Mukantaganzwa, has urged court staff to stop delaying litigants and warned that poor service creates opportunities for corruption.
The Chief Justice made the remarks Monday while launching the 2026 Anti-Corruption Week in Courts, held Feb. 9–13 under the theme, “Poor Service Is a Breeding Ground for Corruption. Report It, Let’s Fight It Together.”
She said the theme was chosen after officials observed that some citizens believe they must pay bribes to receive proper service, even though quality service is their legal right.
“A citizen pays a bribe as a price for good service, while they have the right to be received well, informed clearly, responded to respectfully, and have their cases heard fairly and according to the law,” Mukantaganzwa said.
During the week, each court president and the chief registrar will meet with citizens who have case-related concerns or who want to understand court procedures. Mukantaganzwa called on judges, registrars and other court staff to treat litigants with respect and avoid unnecessary delays or coercion.
“Proper scheduling of cases is essential. Hearings should proceed on time, and any adjournments must follow the law and be communicated to all parties,” she said.
She reminded the public that cases are scheduled based on the order in which they are filed, and that court sessions begin at 9 a.m. She also urged citizens to reject claims that winning a case requires bribery, and encouraged anyone receiving poor service to report it to the judiciary via the toll-free number 9040.
Mukantaganzwa highlighted recent disciplinary actions, noting that 13 judicial staff members were sanctioned for corruption in 2024–2025. Over the past 20 years, 57 staff members, including judges and registrars, have been dismissed for corruption-related offenses.
The chief justice said these actions show misconduct will not be tolerated and that maintaining public trust in the judiciary remains a priority.
The Anti-Corruption Week in Courts is being celebrated for the 16th time and is held annually during the second week of February.
